Flagships New Gear – August 2007

Sail Staff | September 27, 2007

Edited by David Schmidt

Map Lovers Delight

Charts and maps are one of sailings great legacies, as most exploring expeditions brought back charts of previously unknown waters as part of the trips bounty. Now, Latitude Kinsale of Ireland makes handmade, custom, three-dimensional to-scale maps, allowing sailors of a different era to share in this same tradition. Below-water topography is clearly discernable, and frame-lighting options make these one-of-a-kind maps unique. Latitude Kinsale will work with clients to research old charts and specific areas to create a truly custom piece. Light charts, which replicate the actual flashing patterns of real lighthouses, are also available. From $680. Latitude Kinsale, 011-353-21-4772784, www.latitudekinsale.com

Bioluminescence?

For the owner who thinks he has everything, here is another toy. Enjoying drinks aboard at nightor better, going for a night sailtakes on a decidedly new twist with Imtras new IML Underwater Hull Light. The unit features a 150-watt high-output lamp that illuminates under and around the hull, but purportedly maintains a low operating temperature. The lights underwater bezel is designed to create minimal drag, and the unit comes with a built-in automatic thermal cut-off switch. The unit can be installed on boats with hulls up to 5 inches thick. Sailors who love going for an evening swim will enjoy the nighttime possibilities of the IML Underwater Hull Lightjust make sure you know what fish are attracted to light. $1,695. Imtra, 508-995-7000, www.imtra.com

Code-0 Furler

Karver first made heads spin in 2004 with its K-Blocks; now its spinning sails and saving weight aloft with the new line of K.F. Furlers. The basic unit includes Karvers swivel and furling drum; your sailmaker will build your Code 0 with an ultrastrong synthetic luff cord that attaches directly to this hardware. To use, simply raise the halyard, unfurl the sail using the continuous furler line, and trim. Accessories are available to further trick out the system, including Karvers slick trip-line halyard lock and a block-and-tackle thats fitted below the furling drum to control luff tension. From $985. Euro Marine Trading, Inc., 800-222-7712, www.euromarinetrading.com

Carbon Spun

Heres a case of grand-prix trickle-down you can benefit from: Lewmars new Grand Prix Carbon Fiber 99 winch was specifically designed for the Open 60 and Volvo 70 classes, but it can also handle the loads generated by other large, powerful yachts. The units drum diameter is just under 9 inches; the winch offers a power ratio of 101:1 and has a wide bearing track to accept lines and sheets from any angle. The three-speed winch is available with a cleat top and dual-direction ratchet-sheave base or as a self-tailer. Gears are selected with a thin-diameter rope loop situated on top of the winchyou simply pull it up for first gear. Best yet, thanks to its carbon-fiber construction, the 99 winch wont slow you down. $21,460. Lewmar USA, 203-458-6200, www.lemar.com